Eyelash Growth Research Articles

Hair Growth Promoting Effects of 15-Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenase Inhibitor in Human Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is known to be effective in regenerating tissues, and bimatoprost, an analog of PGF2α, has been approved by the FDA as an eyelash growth promoter and has been proven effective in human hair follicles. Thus, to enhance PGE2 levels while improving hair loss, we found dihydroisoquinolinone piperidinylcarboxy pyrazolopyridine (DPP), an inhibitor of 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH), using DeepZema®, an AI-based drug development program. Here, we investigated whether DPP improved hair loss in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) damaged by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair loss. We found that DPP enhanced wound healing and the expression level of alkaline phosphatase in DHT-damaged HFDPCs. We observed that DPP significantly down-regulated the generation of reactive oxygen species caused by DHT. DPP recovered the mitochondrial membrane potential in DHT-damaged HFDPCs. We demonstrated that DPP significantly increased the phosphorylation levels of the AKT/ERK and activated Wnt signaling pathways in DHT-damaged HFDPCs. We also revealed that DPP significantly enhanced the size of the three-dimensional spheroid in DHT-damaged HFDPCs and increased hair growth in ex vivo human hair follicle organ culture. These data suggest that DPP exhibits beneficial effects on DHT-damaged HFDPCs and can be utilized as a promising agent for improving hair loss.

From Eye Care to Hair Growth: Bimatoprost.

Bimatoprost has emerged as a significant medication in the field of medicine over the past several decades, with diverse applications in ophthalmology, dermatology, and beyond. Originally developed as an ocular hypotensive agent, it has proven highly effective in treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Its ability to reduce intraocular pressure has established it as a first-line treatment option, improving management and preventing vision loss. In dermatology, bimatoprost has shown promising results in the promotion of hair growth, particularly in the treatment of alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action, stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, has led to the development of bimatoprost-containing solutions for enhancing eyelash growth. The aim of our review is to provide a brief description, overview, and studies in the current literature regarding the versatile clinical use of bimatoprost in recent years. This can help clinicians determine the most suitable individualized therapy to meet the needs of each patient. Our methods involve a comprehensive review of the latest advancements reported in the literature in bimatoprost formulations, which range from traditional eye drops to sustained-release implants. These innovations offer extended drug delivery, enhance patient compliance, and minimize side effects. The vast literature published on PubMed has confirmed the clinical usefulness of bimatoprost in lowering intraocular pressure and in managing patients with glaucoma. Numerous studies have shown promising results in dermatology and esthetics in promoting hair growth, particularly in treating alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action involves stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, leading to the development of solutions that enhance eyelash growth. The global use of bimatoprost has expanded significantly, with applications growing beyond its initial indications. Ongoing research is exploring its potential in glaucoma surgery, neuroprotection, and cosmetic procedures. Bimatoprost has shown immense potential for addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs through various formulations and advancements. Promising future perspectives include the exploration of novel delivery systems such as contact lenses and microneedles to further enhance drug efficacy and patient comfort. Ongoing research and future perspectives continue to shape its role in medicine, promising further advancements and improved patient outcomes.

Open clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of a novel eyelash growth enhancer with peptides and glycosaminoglycans.

Eyelashes play a crucial role in self-image and ocular protection. Enhancements to their structure are of both cosmetic and clinical interest. To assess the efficacy of a peptide and glycosaminoglycan-based eyelash enhancer serum in improving eyelash structure. This open-label clinical trial involved 30 females aged 25-65. Eyelashes were assessed at baseline (D0), 4 weeks (D28), and 12 weeks (D84) using specialized software and high-resolution imagery. Measurements included lash number, width, length, volume, arc, and angle. At 12 weeks, significant increases were observed in lash length (+8.3%), number (+5%), width (+10.1%), volume (+14.1%), arc (+13.4%), and angle (+28.3%) compared to baseline. Global Eyelash Assessment (GEA) scores significantly improved, and patient treatment satisfaction increased from 73.34% at D28 to 84.33% at D84. No adverse effects were reported. The eyelash growth enhancer serum demonstrated significant efficacy in improving eyelash structure by Week 12, with early signs of improvement evident by Week 4. The high patient satisfaction levels underscore the perceived effectiveness of the product.

Adverse events of topical ocular prostaglandin medications for glaucoma treatment: a pharmacovigilance study based on the FAERS database.

As prostaglandin medications, crucial in glaucoma treatment, become more widely used, their local adverse events are increasingly observed. To evaluate the common adverse events of four clinically commonly used prostaglandin F (FP) receptor agonists in the treatment of glaucoma in the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. We screened and analyzed the generic and brand names of latanoprost, bimatoprost, travoprost, and tafluprost in the FAERS database and summarized and cleaned the baseline information of subjects receiving the above-mentioned drugs. Perform descriptive statistical analysis on the baseline information of subjects using the drugs. Conduct disproportionality analysis of drug-related adverse events. The criteria for positive signals of adverse events are established by simultaneously meeting the thresholds set by four methods: the ratio of reported odds, proportional reporting ratio, Bayesian confidence propagation neural network, and multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker. Additionally, assess the cumulative risk curves for drug-induced time of the aforementioned drugs and use one-way ANOVA to compare differences in drug-induced time across different groups. The study included 1567 latanoprost, 1517 bimatoprost, 696 travoprost, and 82 tafluprost subjects. Adverse events mainly affected eye disorders, with significant issues in iris hyperpigmentation, ocular pemphigoid, corneal endothelial cell loss, periorbital fat atrophy, corneal irritation, eyelash growth, and ocular hyperemia. The time to onset varied among drugs, with latanoprost showing the longest (mean days = 344.37) and bimatoprost the shortest duration (mean days = 155.65; p < 0.001). Although signal detection analysis based on the FAERS database cannot establish a definitive causal relationship, our study found that FP receptor agonists used in glaucoma can cause various adverse events. Assessing their clinical suitability and potential side effects is crucial for providing personalized treatment and ensuring medication safety.

Elektroliza rzęs – trwała metoda leczenia pacjentów z nieprawidłowo rosnącymi rzęsami

Eyelashes constitute a protective apparatus for our eyes, which is why their improper growth negatively affects the aesthetics and condition of the ocular surface. Electrolysis of eyelashes is one of the methods used to treat this condition. This paper focuses on discussing the procedure, mechanism of action, and achieved results of eyelash electrolysis. The presented conclusions aim to broaden knowledge about this method and emphasize its potential in improving the quality of life for patients with issues related to abnormal eyelash growth. To conduct a literature review, relevant scientific publications on eyelash electrolysis were identified through database searches. Additionally, the study presents a photographic representation of the course of the electrolysis procedure. Electrolysis, also known as galvanization, is based on the chemical breakdown of tissues under the influence of direct current. In the hair follicle, electrolysis reactions lead to the generation of gases that interact with the hair tissue. The procedure can be an effective option for patients with trichiasis or distichiasis. The effectiveness of electrolysis depends on close contact with stem cells, and results suggest a lasting effect for the majority of patients. Patient age and operator experience impact efficacy. Electrolysis appears to be more efficient than lash ablation or thermolysis and is associated with a lower likelihood of complications. The literature review has yielded essential conclusions for the ophthalmologist’s practice, aiding in more efficient diagnosis and patient management. Given the limited number of available studies, the reisencouragement to further explore the topic of eyelash electrolysis, document cases, and foster collaborative scientific efforts to find the optimal treatment method for patients with abnormal eyelash growth.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Latanoprost for Eyelash Growth in Aesthetic Medicine

Eyelashes, in addition to fulfilling eye-protective functions, generate an aesthetic impact. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog, commonly used for the treatment of glaucoma and intraocular hypertension. The side effect reported most often is the stimulation of eyelash growth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of latanoprost in inducing eyelash growth and darkening. Thirty healthy volunteers were recruited in a 3-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. A transparent eyelash mascara was used as a vehicle. The placebo group (n = 15) received only the vehicle, and the latanoprost group (n = 15) received the vehicle + 0.005% latanoprost. The participants were asked to apply the latanoprost topically to the eyelashes while avoiding entry into the eye, daily at night. The latanoprost group showed a significant increase in eyelash length and color change, while the placebo group maintained eyelash length and color throughout the study. The intraocular pressures of all the participants were maintained in normal ranges (10–20 mmHg). Topical application of both the placebo and the latanoprost medications was well tolerated; none of the participants withdrew, generated side effects, or developed any ophthalmic pathology. In conclusion, latanoprost is effective and safe to stimulate the growth of eyelashes.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of cosmetics on the ocular surface

In this report the use of eye cosmetic products and procedures and how this represents a lifestyle challenge that may exacerbate or promote the development of ocular surface and adnexal disease is discussed. Multiple aspects of eye cosmetics are addressed, including their history and market value, psychological and social impacts, possible problems associated with cosmetic ingredients, products, and procedures, and regulations for eye cosmetic use. In addition, a systematic review that critically appraises randomized controlled trial evidence concerning the ocular effects of eyelash growth products is included. The findings of this systematic review highlight the evidence gaps and indicate future directions for research to focus on ocular surface outcomes associated with eyelash growth products.

Patterns of insurance coverage for wigs in patients with alopecia areata: a cross-sectional survey.

Patterns of insurance coverage for wigs in patients with alopecia areata: a cross-sectional survey.

Эктопические ресницы как фактор риска возникновения язв роговицы у собак. Особенности клинической картины, диагностики и лечения

This paper presents a generalized experience of diagnosis and treatment of dogs with ectopic eyelashes and corneal ulcers caused by them. Ectopic eyelashes are ophthalmopathy, which is most common in dogs and is characterized by the germination of pathological eyelashes or eyelashes through the tarsal plate and conjunctiva of the upper eyelid from hair follicles, and have a damaging traumatic effect on the cornea, causing erosion and then corneal ulcer. The pathology is congenital and has an autosomal dominant type of inheritance. There is also a pedigree predisposition to this disease. The following breeds are most susceptible: Brussels Griffin, Brabanson, Retriever, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, boxer, English Bulldog, English Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, Jack Russell Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier. The main problem of the appearance of ectopic eyelashes is the occurrence of erosions and corneal ulcers in the projection of eyelash growth. Which is accompanied by a pronounced pain syndrome, which manifests itself in the form of photophobia, blepharospasm, lacrimation and / or suppuration, corneal edema and the desire of the animal to constantly scratch the eye. In this work, a study was conducted to determine the risk factors for the occurrence of this pathology (this is a breed predisposition and genetic inheritance), diagnosis and effectiveness of surgical treatment of this pathology on 50 dogs. The authors describe the clinical picture, the technique of the operation, and the results of dynamic observation of animals. According to the results of clinical observations, it was found that there is a characteristic breed predisposition and genetic inheritance of ophthalmopathy. This factor must be taken into account during the clinical examination of the animal. Also, when ectopic eyelashes appear, a fairly characteristic clinical picture of the disease is observed. The surgical method of V-plastic surgery is proposed for treatment. No relapses were recorded in any of the 50 cases examined, while the morphofunctional characteristics of the cornea were preserved. Drug maintenance therapy, including a regenerative drug, showed good results in the postoperative period. The use of a regenerative drug accelerated the healing process, allowed to preserve the transparency of the cornea and its curvature.

Development of Eyelash Growth Technology with The Latest Human Stem Cell Culture Supernatant —Collaboration with M Regenerative Clinic—

Development of Eyelash Growth Technology with The Latest Human Stem Cell Culture Supernatant —Collaboration with M Regenerative Clinic—

Safety of Fixed-Combination Bimatoprost 0.03%/Timolol 0.5% Ophthalmic Solution at 6Months in Chinese Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension.

Fixed-combination bimatoprost 0.03%/timolol 0.5% ophthalmic solution (FCBT; Ganfort®, Allergan, an AbbVie company) effectively reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) via complementary mechanisms of action of the agents, but long-term (> 12weeks) safety evaluations of FCBT remain limited. FCBT safety is evaluated herein, with particular focus on hyperemia and eyelash growth, at 24weeks in Chinese patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). In this multicenter, open-label, noncomparative, phase4 study conducted in China, patients diagnosed with OAG or OHT having insufficient response to β-blocker- or prostaglandin analogue/prostamide (PGA)-based IOP-lowering monotherapy in one or both eyes were switched from their current IOP-lowering treatment to FCBT (onedrop per eye every evening) without prior washout. Assessment visits were scheduled at baseline and weeks4, 12, and 24 (or study exit). The primary outcome measure was adverse event (AE) incidence through 24weeks. Of 725 patients enrolled, 632 (87.2%) completed the study; 93 (12.8%) patients discontinued, including 29 (4.0%) due to AEs. Of 1326 FCBT-treated eyes (total), 594 (44.8%) experienced ≥ 1 ocular treatment-related AE during the study. Conjunctival hyperemia (the most common AE overall) and eyelash growth were reported in 269 (20.3%) and 54 (4.1%) FCBT-treated eyes, respectively. The incidence of other known PGA-related AEs (including blepharal pigmentation and erythema of eyelid) was < 10% each. Most conjunctival hyperemia reports were mild in severity (214/259; 82.6%) and only 1/259 (0.4%) was severe. Similarly, most cases of eyelash growth were mild (46/52; 88.5%); none were severe. One (< 0.1%) FCBT-treated eye had a serious ocular AE (OAG) considered FCBT-related. The frequency and severity of FCBT-related AEs, including conjunctival hyperemia and eyelash growth, are consistent with previously published findings. No new safety concerns were raised. This prospective study reaffirms that once-daily FCBT is a safe and well-tolerated therapy for OAG and OHT. NCT02571712.

33774 Baricitinib results in eyebrow and eyelash growth in patients with alopecia areata who do not achieve 20% or less scalp hair loss

Baricitinib, an oral selective Janus kinase (JAK)1/JAK2 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy for patients with severe alopecia areata (AA). This analysis evaluated eyebrows and eyelashes regrowth in patients who did not achieve a Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score ≤20 (20% or less scalp hair loss) at Week 36 from 2 randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials (BRAVE-AA1 (NCT03570749) and BRAVE-AA2 (NCT03899259)). Patients received placebo, baricitinib 2 mg, or baricitinib 4 mg. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the SALT, Clinician Reported Outcome for Eyebrow Hair (ClinRo EB) and Eyelash Hair (ClinRo EL).

Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension with the Fixed-Dose Combination of Preservative-Free Tafluprost/Timolol: Clinical Outcomes from Ophthalmology Clinics in Italy.

IntroductionThe VISIONARY study examined the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering efficacy and tolerability of the preservative-free fixed-dose combination of tafluprost (0.0015%) and timolol (0.5%) (PF tafluprost/timolol FC) in a real-world setting. The country-level data reported herein comprise the largest and first observational study of PF tafluprost/timolol FC therapy in Italy.MethodsAn observational, multicenter, prospective study included adult Italian patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) demonstrating insufficient response or poor tolerability with topical prostaglandin analogue (PGA) or beta-blocker monotherapy. Treatment was switched to PF tafluprost/timolol FC therapy at baseline. Primary endpoint was the absolute mean IOP change from baseline at Month 6. Exploratory and safety endpoints included change in IOP at Weeks 4 and 12, ocular signs, symptom severity and reporting of adverse events (AEs).ResultsOverall, 160 OAG/OHT patients were included. Mean ± standard deviation IOP was reduced from 19.6 ± 3.6 mmHg at baseline to 14.5 ± 2.6 mmHg at Month 6 (reduction of 5.1 ± 3.7 mmHg; 24.1%; p < 0.0001). IOP reduction was also statistically significant at Week 4 (23.1%; p < 0.0001) and Week 12 (24.7%; p < 0.0001). Based on data cutoff values for mean IOP change of ≥20%, ≥25%, ≥30% and ≥35%, respective Month 6 responder rates were 68.1%, 48.7%, 36.2% and 26.9%. Most ocular signs and symptoms were significantly reduced in severity from baseline at Month 6. Two non-serious and mild AEs were reported during the study period, among which, one AE was treatment-related (eyelash growth). ConclusionItalian OAG and OHT patients demonstrated a significant IOP reduction from baseline at Week 4 that was maintained over a 6-month period following a switch from topical PGA or beta-blocker monotherapy to PF tafluprost/timolol FC therapy. Severity of most ocular signs and symptoms was significantly reduced during the study period, and PF tafluprost/timolol FC was generally well tolerated.

Dermoscopic features of eyelid margin tumors: A single-center retrospective study.

Despite rapid growth in the significance of dermoscopy in dermatological oncology, relatively little is yet known about the dermoscopic patterns of eyelid margin tumors. The aim of the study was to analyze the dermoscopic features of eyelid margin tumors. This was a retrospective, single-center, consecutive study which included clinical and dermoscopic analysis of eyelid margin tumors diagnosed at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology at the Medical University of Gdańsk from 1 June 2016 to 31 December 2020. Dermoscopic features significantly more prevalent in malignant non-melanocytic lesions compared to benign ones were alteration in eyelash growth, structureless pink areas, starry milia-like cysts, and perpendicular vessels. In contrast, there were no dermoscopic features that occurred significantly more frequently in malignant melanocytic lesions when compared to benign ones. Basal cell carcinoma, in comparison to hidrocystoma, more commonly presented with ulceration and structureless pink areas. The main features differentiating basal cell carcinoma from dermal nevus were the presence of ulceration, alteration in eyelash growth, structureless pink and structureless white areas, and perpendicular vessels within the tumor with each of these features observed more commonly in basal cell carcinoma. Blue nevus, hemangioma, or pigmented hidrocystoma presenting exclusively with blue structureless areas may be difficult to differentiate based on dermoscopy. The study offers additional dermoscopic clues in the assessment of eyelid margin tumors. Some observations reported previously to be typical of basal cell carcinoma (e.g., linear vessels arranged perpendicularly to the eyelid margin) were documented also within the normal eyelid margin accompanying other cases, and according to our study, cannot be useful as a pathognomonic feature. In contrast, it seems that yellow structures (half-moon sign, starry milia-like cysts) may be important dermoscopic features, though further studies are needed to confirm our observations.

Perifollicular Xanthoma Occurring in Patients after Erlotinib Treatment.

Erlotinib (Tarceva®) is a drug used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Since EGFR is expressed in the skin, EGFR inhibitors commonly develop cutaneous side effects such as acneiform eruption, paronychia, telangiectasias, and abnormal eyelash growth. A 56-year-old man and a 46-year-old man visited the dermatology clinic complaining of yellowish papuloplaques and acneiform eruption on the face. They had been treated with erlotinib for lung cancer. Since patients using EGFR inhibitors are increasing, physicians should be aware that xanthomatous change can occur in severe acneiform eruptions after erlotinib treatment.

Topical bimatoprost in the treatment of eyelash loss in alopecia totalis and universalis: A prospective, open-label study.

Bimatoprost is a synthetic prostaglandin structural analogue used among other indications to increase eyelash growth. The aim of this prospective, open-label study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical bimatoprost in the treatment of eyelash loss in alopecia areata totalis (AT) and universalis (AU). Study subjects applied ophthalmic bimatoprost (0.3mg/ml) solution to the eyelid margins once nightly for at least 12 weeks (mean treatment period was 30.6 weeks). A total of 16 out of 17 subjects completed the study. Only the subjects with eyelashes present at baseline experienced an increase in eyelash length and thickness. No new eyelash regrowth was induced. In patients with AT and AU topical bimatoprost affected existing eyelashes, but failed to induce regrowth of new eyelashes.

Eyelash trichomegaly: a systematic review of acquired and congenital aetiologies of lengthened lashes.

Long eyelashes have been popularized and many commercially available products exist to achieve eyelash growth as a desired cosmetic effect. Eyelash trichomegaly may be induced by medications, procedures, or be related to medical conditions; however, the exact mechanisms that govern eyelash growth are not well elucidated. This study aims to identify and summarize aetiologies associated with eyelash trichomegaly. We report a systematic review of 148 clinical trials, prospective and retrospective studies, and case reports describing all evidence-based potential aetiologies of eyelash trichomegaly obtained from the Medline/PubMed and Cochrane Library through January 2021. Inclusion criteria were defined as (i) human studies involving congenital and acquired diseases in which eyelash trichomegaly is a characteristic or (ii) assessment of trichomegaly as an adverse or desired effect of a medication or procedure. Exclusion criteria included: animal studies, articles not available in English, outcomes unrelated to eyelash trichomegaly, and secondary review articles. Pharmacologic agents associated with eyelash trichomegaly included prostaglandin analogues (15-keto fluprostenol isopropyl ester, bimatoprost, latanoprost, and travoprost), epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (cetuximab, erlotinib, and panitumumab), interferon-alpha, and calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus and cyclosporine). Surgical procedures of the eyelid, as well as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, HIV, ichthyosis vulgaris (IV), uveitis, and vernal keratoconjunctivitis were also associated with increased eyelash growth. Congenital disorders associated with lengthened eyelashes included Cantú syndrome, CHOPS syndrome, Coffin-Siris syndrome, congenital heart disease, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, Costello syndrome, familial trichomegaly, Floating Harbor syndrome, Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, Kabuki-Makeup syndrome, KBG syndrome, Oliver-McFarlane syndrome, Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, and Smith-Magenis syndrome. While the most common cause of eyelash trichomegaly is topical bimatoprost use, better understanding of pathways implicated in eyelash trichomegaly may lead to the discovery of additional medications to stimulate eyelash growth and create avenues for future therapeutic interventions.

Periocular Adverse Reactions to Omidenepag Isopropyl

To investigate the periocular adverse reactions to omidenepag isopropyl (OMDI). Nonrandomized comparative clinical study. We enrolled 100 patients (100 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who received initial treatment with OMDI or tafluprost in only 1 eye for ≥6 months. Photographs of the eyelids were taken on the day of the participants' visit after ≥6 months of prescription. Subsequently, 3 ophthalmologists individually determined the occurrence of eyelid pigmentation, eyelash growth, and deepening of the upper eyelid sulcus (DUES). Additionally, a questionnaire on the subjective symptoms was administered. Multivariate analysis of baseline data was performed to investigate the factors involved in adverse reactions. The mean duration of drug administration was 10.2 ± 3.8 and 10.8 ± 4.1 months in the OMDI and tafluprost groups, respectively. The frequencies of eyelid pigmentation, eyelash growth, and DUES were 0.0%, 0.0%, and 2.0%, respectively, in the OMDI group, whereas the corresponding values in the tafluprost group were 4.0%, 32.0%, and 12.0%. The only significant difference was that the OMDI group showed fewer patients with eyelash growth than in the tafluprost group (P < .0001). In the questionnaire, the subjective symptoms of eyelid pigmentation, eyelash growth, and DUES were 8.0%, 2.0%, and 4.0%, respectively, in the OMDI group, whereas the corresponding values in the tafluprost group were 12.0%, 40.0%, and 4.0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed a correlation between the type of drug administered and these adverse reactions (R=0.38, P=.005). The frequencies of periocular adverse reactions to OMDI, ranging from 0% to 2.0%, were lower than those to tafluprost.

Omidenepag isopropyl ophthalmic solution for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension: an update

ABSTRACT Introduction: Current medical therapy for glaucoma consists of topical agents that lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Prostaglandin F2α analogues, the most commonly used class of IOP-lowering drugs, bind to prostaglandin FP receptors in tissues of the uveoscleral pathway. This binding increases the expression of matrix metalloproteinases, which degrade the extracellular matrix of the ciliary body, creating inter-muscular spaces allowing aqueous humor to exit the eye. Drawbacks to prostaglandin F2α analogues include cosmetic side effects, especially prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy (PAP) syndrome. Areas covered: This review describes the novel prostaglandin E2 receptor antagonist, omidenepag isopropyl, which reduces IOP by improving drainage of uveoscleral and trabecular outflow, increasing the facility of outflow. In contrast to prostaglandin F2α analogues, omidenepag does not inhibit adipogenesis or promote eyelash growth. This review describes preclinical studies of omidenepag, published results of phase I–III clinical trials, and preliminary results of phase III trials currently in progress. Expert opinion: Omidenepag appears to provide IOP reductions comparable to those of prostaglandin F2α analogues, but without the cosmetic side effects common to prostaglandin F2α analogues, especially PAP syndrome. The lack of association between omidenepag and PAP suggests that long-term use of this agent may have advantages in patients with glaucoma.

Revisiting the Safety of Prostaglandin Analog Eyelash Growth Products.

The FDA approved bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03% for treatment of eyelash hypotrichosis in 2008. Consumer concern persists regarding potential side effects of this product. To identify gaps in the safety information associated with the use of prostaglandin eyelash growth products. Literature searches were performed using PubMed, Embase, and Nexis Uni databases without restriction to publication date, language, or study setting. The literature pertaining to bimatoprost for treatment of eyelash hypotrichosis is dominated by industry-sponsored clinical trials. Study design choices create gaps in our understanding of the clinical safety of these products. Because of study design choice, clinical trials of bimatoprost for eyelash growth may have systematically underreported the incidence of drug application discomfort and prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy. The risk of increased iris pigmentation remains inadequately investigated. Consequently, there is an ongoing need to educate and monitor patients who choose to use these products.